Meet Naya Fernandez | Balloon stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Naya Fernandez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Naya, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve always been a risk taker. When I was younger that quality use to get me into a lot of trouble, but now I realize success and risk taking go hand in hand. Ive always loved art, I’m a very creative person, so when I stubbled on a few YouTube videos of balloon decor I knew I had to try it. I fell in love almost instantly. I ordered about three hundred dollars worth of balloons and an electric pump off of Amazon. My first garland was awful but after the third attempt I was happy with what I had made. Since I was sixteen I’ve worked in the same coffee shop, and as much as I loved coming home smelling like espresso beans each day, I knew balloons were my passion. I quit my job before even having a business name. A week after quitting i had an Instagram account, another few hundred dollars worth of balloons and about two months
worth of parties booked. It was a bit nerve racking getting started. Not knowing if it was going to work out, not knowing if other people would like my work, but taking that risk led me to be able to put all my time and efforts into my business and it’s really paid off.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a balloon artist, I find art in the smallest details. My favorite part of balloon decor is choosing the right shade of color. Something about all the beautiful colors coming together in the end is really magical. I am so proud of how far I’ve come so quickly, When I first started TheBalloonBums I was never expecting the support I received. I am so excited to see what the future holds. I want anyone who’s deciding to start a business to know that it may seem scary at first but if you follow your passion anything is possible and the risk is worth the reward.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was in town the first stop would have to be galveston. Now, don’t get me wrong it’s no Jamaican beach but I love the ocean, My business name, TheBalloonBums, is actually a nod to being a “beach bum,” which my family loved to call me as a kid. I’m Also a bit of a thrill seeker so we would definitely be riding every roller roaster at pleasure pier and kemah boardwalk! For dinner there’s a little spot in downtown called Ninjaramon that I love! They have the best noodles and drinks! I’d finish the week at HER lounge for some fun and drinks!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My fiancé deserves the biggest shoutout, we have two beautiful little boys together and he was so willing to take that leap of faith with me. He encouraged me to quit my full time job and make a career doing something I love. He was so confident he paid for all of my backdrops and party rentals to get started. It’s nice to have someone so supportive helping you achieve your goals.

Instagram: TheBalloonBums